Irish book of condolence to open as Israel denies violation of international law

A book of condolences will open at the Palestinian embassy in Dublin's Blackrock later to commemorate those who have lost their lives in Gaza.

A vigil will also take place from 2pm to 6pm.

It follows three weeks of demonstrations in Dublin that have seen thousands of Irish people march in solidarity with Palestinian people.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Israeli government has insisted the country has not violated International humanitarian law in launching the recent offensive.

Gaza health officials have said the overall number of Palestinians killed during the conflict has surpassed 1,000.

Some 40 Israeli soldiers and three civilians have been killed in the same time period.

Spokesperson for the Israeli government Yigal Palmore said: "What we are saying is that it is necessary to destroy the Hamas rockets and missiles that are stashed all along the Gaza strip inside civilian neighbourhoods."

In answer to a question as to whether he was saying Israel was not violating international humanitarian law, he said: "That's exactly what I am saying."